---
title: If my high school stream is Humanities or Commerce, can I still pursue a STEM major in the US? How does that work?
description: "Yes, but you need foundational prerequisites. Most STEM majors require Calculus, Physics, and Chemistry, if your Class 12 lacks these, you may take them in college (extends time/cost) or self-study for AP exams. Selective STEM programs (MIT, Caltech, CMU CS)…"
url: "https://www.collegeaccessprogram.in/faq/if-my-high-school-stream-is-humanities-or-commerce-can-i-still-pursue-a-stem-major-in-the-us-how-does-that-work/"
updated: "2026-01-09"
category: Study in USA
---

# If my high school stream is Humanities or Commerce, can I still pursue a STEM major in the US? How does that work?

Yes, but you need foundational prerequisites. Most STEM majors require Calculus, Physics, and Chemistry, if your Class 12 lacks these, you may take them in college (extends time/cost) or self-study for AP exams. Selective STEM programs (MIT, Caltech, CMU CS) expect competitive STEM coursework/scores, so Commerce students should demonstrate math strength through SAT Math Level 2, calculus, or online courses.